Finance Minister Christos Staikouras expressed his satisfaction with the fact that 2022 ended with a primary surplus.
“We all achieved together, households, businesses, State and Government, the biggest – pan-European – fiscal improvement, despite the fact that the support measures for society were among the most generous in Europe,” he said.
At the same time, in the same announcement, he states:
“In the same year, the GDP of the country increased by 26 billion euros. And public debt fell by 23% of GDP.
The Greek economy has turned the page. He returned, dynamically, to the European scene. It is now growing at one of the highest rates in Europe, from tail to performance in the previous four years. Public finances are stabilizing and improving.
The production model of our country is changing, with a significant increase in investments and exports. In short, Greece has charted a new course and is moving on a more hopeful path. We achieve, all together, the promotion of a modern, productive, competitive, extroverted and sustainably growing economy. An economy with household and stable public finances. A resilient and strong economy. A strong and fair Greece. A Greece that exudes self-confidence, reliability and trust”.
Deputy Minister of Finance Theodore Skylakakis tweeted the same issue, noting: “In 2022, we finally achieved a primary surplus, albeit a small one, a year earlier than expected. Despite external crises. This ensures conditions of fiscal stability and lays the foundations for an excellent development path. Only a strong government, with a reformist sign, can continue this virtuous circle, in which the Greek economy has entered”.
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**Interview with Finance Minister Christos Staikouras**
**Interviewer:** Minister Staikouras, thank you for joining us today. You recently highlighted the achievement of a primary surplus for 2022, which you described as the biggest fiscal improvement across Europe. What do you think has been the key factor in reaching this milestone, especially despite the external crises we faced?
**Staikouras:** Thank you for having me. The key factor has been the collective effort of households, businesses, and the government. We implemented significant tax cuts and social measures, making sure that support for society was among the most generous in Europe. This collaboration allowed us to navigate through challenging conditions and still achieve fiscal stability.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned that Greece experienced a significant GDP increase and a reduction in public debt. How sustainable do you believe this growth is, given the current global economic uncertainties?
**Staikouras:** The growth we are witnessing is indeed promising and supported by a transformed production model. With increased investments and exports, we are laying down a more resilient foundation. However, sustainability will require ongoing reforms and strong governance to maintain this trajectory.
**Interviewer:** Deputy Minister Skylakakis stated that achieving a primary surplus earlier than expected is a sign of a virtuous development path. Do you think there will be challenges ahead that could disrupt this progress, and how do you plan to address them?
**Staikouras:** There will always be challenges, especially in a global economy that is unpredictable. However, by continuing our reform agenda and fostering a stable environment for investment, we can mitigate those risks. It’s crucial that we remain proactive and adaptable.
**Interviewer:** As Greece moves forward, do you believe the public shares the government’s optimism about this economic transformation? What measures are in place to ensure that this growth benefits all citizens?
**Staikouras:** It’s essential for the public to feel the positive effects of our economic recovery. We are committed to ensuring that growth is inclusive, with policies aimed at improving the quality of life for all citizens. This involves continuous dialogue with the public and making choices that reflect their needs.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, many people are curious about the future. What message do you have for the citizens of Greece regarding the vision for an even stronger economy?
**Staikouras:** My message is one of hope and commitment. Together, we are charting a new course for Greece that is modern, competitive, and sustainable. As we continue this journey, it’s imperative that we maintain self-confidence and trust in our capabilities. I believe that a stronger and fairer Greece is within our reach.
**Question for Readers:** Given Minister Staikouras’s optimistic outlook on Greece’s economic recovery, do you believe the current government can sustain this momentum, or do you foresee potential pitfalls ahead that could impact the lives of ordinary citizens?